During the course of one’s lifetime, no one escapes adversity. We face all degrees of difficulties, especially in contemporary parenting where resilience is crucial. And though we must have resilience when faced with adversity, at times, we can’t see the forest for the trees and get bogged down in the situation. Cognitive strategies can help individuals disengage from distressing feelings when faced with adversity. Darling, resilient behavior is paramount to all of us overcoming adversity at every age and especially after 50. I have learned this over time because I am a woman who is not young. I am not old, I am timeless.

Throughout life, I have been motivated by a positive force of hope and resilience, from the time I was six years old and at every stage of my life since! Lucky me because if I did not process this force, and I don’t know where it came from, I would not have survived my trials. Yes, sweet reader there was a time during the past year that I did not care if I survived my ordeals. But, survive I have, and I am here to tell my story. Resilience is not just about bouncing back but adapting and processing experiences of calamity to foster growth.

I don’t make light of the word adversity. I have confronted plenty of it; widowhood, serious illness, financial problems, moving thousands of miles from home, blending two families and great hurt. And of course there are the little doses of adversity that creep into my daily life. Misfortune can signify serious difficulties or hardships that individuals face. I know you know what I mean, sweet reader.

Darling, I bloomed from every bout of adversity because . . . I did not dwell on what happened to me, I focused on my response. And, I make no bones about it. It is hard at times. Overcoming all the adversities can lead to personal growth and creativity.

With a plan, action, resilience, and the promise of hope, one’s mind can foster optimism, leading one to the finish line. Turning adversity into opportunities can lead to personal growth. You must see the glass as half full. Yes, it is easier said than done. You must form a plan. Visualization and overcoming challenges can enhance self-esteem and a sense of capability. Small actions and positive habits can create a flow of progress and positivity. Recognizing the signs of adversity in one’s mental health is crucial. “Adversity is more about our power to overcome, than the circumstance.” — Honey Good

Understanding Adversity in Everyday Life

Adversity is an inevitable part of everyday life, manifesting in various forms such as financial hardship, health issues, or personal loss. Understanding adversity is crucial for developing resilience and effective coping strategies. While adversity can be a catalyst for growth and learning, it can also be overwhelming and debilitating if not managed properly. Recognizing the signs of adversity, such as increased stress and anxiety, is essential for seeking help and support. Adversity can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, and it’s important to approach it with compassion and empathy. By understanding the nature of adversity, we can better prepare ourselves to face it head-on and emerge stronger on the other side.

My Advice on How to Overcome Adversity

As an example, if my family faced an unexpected illness and I was faced with this type of adversity, I would be a resourceful force in searching for the best of the best medical care on one hand and an upbeat force in the daily life of my family member always giving them hope and a will to fight. This approach would help build their confidence and resilience during such challenging times.

For my wellbeing I would keep a private journal. In it, I would chronicle my feelings—the story of the journey from the depths of darkness and despair into the light. This would enable me to release my feelings, find means to cope and have hope and, possibly, in the future share my story with other people facing the same adversity. Small actions and positive habits can create a flow of progress and positivity during such times.

I know journaling works. Ten years ago I was bored with my busy life and I felt I was floundering. I needed and wanted to find a new purpose; a passion. A writer friend of mine suggested that I keep a journal. She told me to write every day for three months and that I would find my voice. Dear reader, she was right! Finding my authentic voice morphed into Honey Good, a passion I hold near and dear in my heart. Recognizing the signs of adversity in one’s mental health is crucial, and journaling can help notice these signs early.

What I realized as I wrote, was that I wasn’t just filling pages; I was excavating the depths of my own being. I unearthed Susan Honey Good, the woman with many layers of strengths and, naturally, weaknesses. I actually became my own shrink! Authentic journaling is the best way to get to know yourself, ask yourself questions, and live into your answers. And, ultimately live a better life. Journaling is how I learned that the power to overcome any roadblock in life, was already inside of me. Feelings such as gratitude, grief, powerlessness, and frustration arise from personal trials and hardships, and journaling helps in addressing these feelings.

Surrender to Bloom

My new “Surrender to Bloom” journal is the perfect complement to your journaling journey. Every time you open it you will be reminded to stop resisting what you know you cannot win and surrender. Surrendering is not a weakness. It is full on empowerment! It is strength because you will be giving yourself the opportunity to move on, replacing your negative situation with something new and positive with passion that will bring joy. This is how you bloom

As you know, over the past year plus, I have had adversity thrown at me where it hurts the most. My darling ultimate concierge’s health and the lack of family love. My ultimate concierge’s illness has taken a toll, and the estrangement from many in my family grieves me. Sweet reader, grief is part of my daily life. It is hard to find the tools to face adversity when your daily life is filled with grief.

I Found My Passion

Over the past year plus, there were nighttime thoughts before I closed my eyes to go to sleep that scared me. I did not care if I woke up because I was physically and emotionally exhausted. But awake I did, and finally through journaling I lived into a new answer! I would bring back into my life a passion that began when I was six years old at my father’s and grandfather’s knee. I wanted to join a non-profit that fights antisemitism and Israel’s right to exist.

I am proud to announce that I have been invited to sit on the National Board of ZOA. I found my passion—I took the journey. It has been almost one year. I have arrived and will thrive.

Though my problems with daily adversity will not go away, I have stopped the bleed of despair. And, for those of you sweet readers, who are facing adversity I beg you to become familiar with your thoughts through journaling and live into your answer. What makes you feel passionate? Write your thoughts down and ultimately you will surrender to bloom.

I want you to remember that adversity is more about our power to overcome, than the circumstance. 

I sit here in awe of my own ability to overcome grief and despair; to make sweet lemonade out of lemons; to see my glass half full. And I ask myself how I always hear the knock of opportunity on the door when I am in the depths of despair. This may sound crazy but I have come to the conclusion that it is because I think about it as my story.

The story begins with adversity and ends with one’s ability to move the journey positively forward. I  have this ability because I face adversity, never lose hope for long, and I  listen to my heart. I understand the saying—Surrender to Bloom. It is empowering because you are eliminating adversity and replacing it with the power to bloom.

How to Have a Rose-Colored Glasses Attitude

Mindful Techniques for Coping

Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and meditation, can be powerful tools for reducing the stress and anxiety caused by adversity. By focusing on the present moment, individuals can alleviate worries about the future or regrets about the past, making it easier to cope with challenging situations. Mindful techniques also help develop a greater sense of self-awareness, which is essential for navigating adversity. Regular mindfulness practice can lead to increased resilience and improved emotional regulation, allowing individuals to handle adversity more effectively. The beauty of mindfulness is that it can be practiced anywhere, at any time, making it a convenient and accessible coping strategy for anyone facing tough times.

Boosting Self-Esteem During Challenging Times

Adversity can be particularly challenging for individuals with low self-esteem, as it can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Practicing self-compassion and self-kindness can help boost self-esteem during these tough times. Focusing on your strengths and accomplishments can help develop a more positive self-image. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family members can also provide a much-needed boost to your self-esteem. Engaging in activities that promote a sense of purpose and meaning can further help you develop a more positive self-image. Remember, building self-esteem is a journey, and every small step you take towards self-compassion and self-kindness matters.

Physical and Emotional Well-being

Adversity can have a significant impact on both physical and emotional well-being. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as exercise or sports, can help reduce the stress and anxiety caused by adversity. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce physical tension. Ensuring you get enough sleep and maintain a healthy diet is also essential for your physical and emotional well-being. Seeking social support from friends, family, or a therapist can help you cope with the emotional impact of adversity. Taking care of your physical and emotional health is crucial for building resilience and overcoming adversity.

Seeking Help and Support

Seeking help and support is essential for coping with adversity, as it can provide you with the resources and guidance needed to navigate challenging situations. Friends and family members can offer emotional support and practical help, such as childcare or household chores. Therapists and counselors can provide you with coping strategies and techniques for managing stress and anxiety. Support groups can offer a sense of community and connection with others who have experienced similar challenges. Online resources, such as hotlines and online support groups, can also provide access to help and support. Remember, you don’t have to face adversity alone—reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

How I Write My Own Story When Facing Adversity After 50

• I collect my thoughts (here’s where journaling shines).
• I know if I wallow in despair nothing will change.
• When I was ill I focused on seeing life through rose-colored glasses. The sun became sunnier, the stars brighter, my life more meaningful and my gratitude deeper.
• I decide on a path: This becomes my story.
• When I blended two families I looked outside my emotions and focused on the emotions of the young adult children who lost a mother on my husband’s side and a father on my side.
• When I moved across an ocean, I focused on looking forward not backward.
• I spark my creativity and motivate myself out of despair and into a hopeful future with a  passion.

This is the key darlings: I encourage myself to grow from adversity by letting go of what I cannot change, and replacing it with what gives me passion. . . Surrender to Bloom.

As you continue to age over 50, 60, 70 and beyond meet adversity with positivity. Take your story and build it to new heights with a fierce passion. Amen. Amen.

What are your strategies when faced with adversity? Please share with me in the comments.